Senior Scottish business figures and trade representatives have called on the Chancellor to help struggling companies in his Pre-Budget Report (PBR).

They suggest a range of measures, including tax relief and support funds, are needed to help stimulate the economy and raise confidence in Scotland.

But there are fears any schemes announced will not go far enough to make a difference.

The CBI will publish its detailed submission to Alistair Darling this weekend. However, David Lonsdale, assistant director of CBI Scotland, warned there may be little in the PBR to cheer businesses due to concerns over the public spending deficit.

He said: "CBI Scotland is not expecting the Chancellor's Pre-Budget Report to be a bonanza for business. However, the PBR is an opportunity to take further decisive action to help firms and the economy at this challenging time and to prepare the country to take full advantage of the recovery when it comes."

The body wants potential windfalls for the Scottish Government directed towards GDP enhancing investments such as reducing business rates or bringing forward infrastructure projects.

Lonsdale added: "The economy must be the priority of priorities for Scottish Ministers."

Scottish Chambers of Commerce is calling for a reverse in the small business rate of corporation tax, abandonment of fuel duty increases and commitments to quicker payments for small contractors.

A spokesman said: "The Chancellor has a golden opportunity to act decisively to support Scottish business and demonstrate the UK Government both understands the pressures we are facing and has the courage to take vital decisions.

"If the Chancellor waits until the spring Budget to act, then he will have left it too late. Scottish businesses need support now from the UK Government, and this is his best chance to deliver."

The Federation of Small Businesses is hoping for a £1billion survival fund for smaller companies to increase short-term funding and Companies House to be given a greater enforcement role in tackling late payments.

Henry Robson, Law Society of Scotland deputy chief executive, said: "Like just about every other sector, the legal profession will be looking for some indication the banks will start using the money from the government to stimulate lending and push funds out into the market place.

"This should help generate confidence and increase the number of loans and mortgages taken on by both businesses and individuals."

Derek Allen, taxation director at Institute of Chartered Accountants of Scotland, said: "The Chancellor needs to build confidence. Business normally likes stability but the status quo is not an option in a downturn."

Fiona Moriarty, director of the Scottish Retail Consortium, said: "Personal tax cuts are not the only form of 'fiscal stimulation' needed. The Government should revise its plans to batter retailers with a range of extra burdens."